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Memorial to William Charles Farquhar

Officer Killed in the Line of Duty

Date of Death: October 22, 1913Rank: PrivateAge: 46Years of Service: 15 years

Circumstance

Officer William Farquhar died as the result of receiving an experimental rabies vaccination after being bitten by a rabid dog on Potomac Street, NW, near M Street, NW. On October 4, 1913, Farquhar was attempting to shoot the dog when he was bitten. A second officer at the scene shot and killed the dog.

The rabies treatment that was prescribed caused severe pain and paralysis and led to his death 16 days later on October 22, 1913.

Officer Farquhar had served with the Metropolitan Police Department for 15 years and was assigned to the 7th Precinct. He was survived by his wife and two sons.